The flu or influenza.
The flu virus may be classified as either Influenza A, B or C.
Late fall to early spring, most prevalent from December to March.
People of all ages can get the flu. Children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are most susceptible and more likely to have serious complications.
The flu is caused by the influenza virus. There are many different strains of the virus and they mutate frequently. That is why people continue to come down with the flu year after year.
The flu can be spread from 1 day before symptoms appear to 5 days after becoming sick. It is possible to spread the flu before you even know you have it.
The flu generally lasts anywhere from 2-7 days, with 4-5 days being the most common. People with the flu usually run a fever, have aches and pains throughout their bodies, feel exhausted, experience severe headaches and may have cold symptoms. These symptoms come on more rapidly than they do with a cold. People with the flu are typically unable to perform daily activities due to the illness.
There is no cure for the flu. There are some prescription antiviral medications, such as Tamiflu(TM), that may help shorten the duration of the illness. However, Tamiflu(TM) is only effective if taken within the first two days of the onset of symptoms. Your doctor will determine if these medications are right for you.
There is a flu shot that usually becomes available in the fall. The flu shot provides immunity to the strain of flu that was spread the previous year. However, because the influenza virus mutates so frequently, the vaccine may not necessarily provide complete immunity to the flu.
The most important thing to do when you get the flu is to get plenty of rest. Because the flu is highly contagious, you should avoid other people until you are feeling better. Other tips for taking care of yourself when you have the flu:
- Drink plenty of fluids - water and sports drinks
- Take over the counter medications to relieve symptoms
- Sleep as much as possible
- Eat when you feel like it, but don't worry about it as long as you are drinking plenty of water
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco use
References:
"Key Facts about Influenza and the Influenza Vaccine." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 30AUG2006. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 27 Feb 2007 <http://www.cdc.gov/flu/keyfacts.htm>.
